NightLink: How Long Will Lovie Be in Chicago?
by Dane Noble on Jul 1, 2009 5:35 PM CDT
95 comments
During this very active Chicago Bears offseason, GM Jerry Angelo has pieced together a successful team on paper. He added weapons on offense, assigned Lovie Smith to call defensive plays, and hired Rod Marinelli to revamp our DLine. We've got the talent to win.
That being said, I am curious as to what you think about Lovie Smith's outlook in Chicago. Of course, today's NFL is constantly referred to as a "What have you done for me lately?" league with its head coaches, and Lovie is probably no different. After all, we heard Angelo say a couple of months ago that the talent is in place, and now it is up to the coaches to make it work.
Did you know that out of 32 NFL teams, only 8 head coaches have been in place for more than 3 seasons with their current teams?
Jeff Fisher, Tennessee (1994)
Andy Reid, Philadelphia (1999)
Bill Belichick, New England (2000)
John Fox, Carolina (2002)
Marvin Lewis, Cincinnati (2003)
Jack Del Rio, Jacksonville (2003)
Lovie Smith, Chicago (2004)
Tom Coughlin, NY Giants (2004)
Out of that list, you have to think that Marvin Lewis' days in Cincinnati are numbered, and John Fox and Jack Del Rio probably need to hurry up and do something as well.
That means that 75% of current head coaches have been with their current team for 3 years or less. In 2009 alone, we have seen 10 new head coaches named (Cleveland, Denver, Detroit, Indianapolis, Kansas City, NY Jets, Oakland [Cable was interim], Seattle, St. Louis, and Tampa Bay).
In Lovie Smith's 5 years in Chicago, he has a record of 45-35, 2 NFC North titles, and 2 playoff berths. In the 2 seasons since the Super Bowl, he is 16-16, and has failed to make the playoffs. That is not a good thing in today's NFL.
It appears that the Bears are in position to battle for the NFC North title once again, but how much wiggle-room does Lovie have? Is Jerry Angelo in a "win now" mode, or might Lovie have a couple of years to get everything together?
How many more seasons do you expect to see Lovie Smith as head coach in Chicago?
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I don't know what's in store for Lovie.
But I really like him as a coach. I hope that he has a few seasons to try and get everything together before they decide he’s done (if they do). It’s just like Jay, we would like a Super Bowl now, but know that it might take a season for everyone to get used to what’s going on, just like we want Lovie to win, win, win; but we need to give him a season to mesh with the team and get everything together.
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
by HoneyBear on Jul 1, 2009 5:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
well as long as he does good this year
he’ll be here for awhile. as long as we make it to the playoffs he should stay. but if we dont he will probably be on the hot-seat the season after this.
by Staleystan595455 on Jul 1, 2009 6:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I say the moves we have made buy him 2 more seasons.
If we make the playoffs this year or next year that might get extended by a season or more. I think that unless this year is a tremendous failure (six wins or less without serious injuries at key positions) he’ll be given at least that long to show he can have success here. I think if this is another mediocre year (7-9 wins and no playoffs) Lovie will be forced to make changes to the coaching staff, especially on offense. If this team struggles on O with the new weapons they have I think Turner may be on his way out unless the receiving corp just stinks. Then its probably bye bye Daryl Drake. He’ll be made into the scape goat to account for our lack of addressing the position and Lovie will get one more year to get it right and get into the playoffs.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
by Just Dave on Jul 1, 2009 6:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree
A minimum of two years to “make it happen” unless the team somehow fell flat on their faces. It would take a lot for the Bears to not have a winning record this year and contend for a playoff spot. If Orton and a first year RB can help a mediocre team go 9-7, imagine what they can do with their new additions. The QB position is upgraded, LT, RT, LG (hopefully!), CB and LB are as well. They’ll win double-digit games this season if the Bears can just get someone to play consistently at FS and WR.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 1, 2009 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would take a lot for the Bears to not have a winning record this year and contend for a playoff spot
don’t get your hopes up. Like I said before, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Bears finish 12-4, 4-12, or somewhere in between. We may have a good QB and a decent running back-TE combo, but beyond that, there’s no guarantees at any other position on the roster.
I’m not going to say our O-line issues are fixed, we still don’t have a Bonifide #1 WR, and the worst part is our defense. Let’s not anoint Marinelli as the cure-all until the season actually starts.
Lovie smith has shown that he can make winners out of marginal talent. Chicago’s talent right now will attract elite talent in the coming years, so I say it would behoove the Bears to let Lovie stay behind the steering wheel for a while.
Camp ifuwanna, we hold you in our heart...
by ifuwannacrownem on Jul 1, 2009 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bob Babich was a cancer on this team.
I truly believe that he had no clue how to coordinate a defense. I love Chico and he was very good at what he did. He knew how to disguise his blitzes and attack the offense’s weaknesses. Babich looked like he was guessing all of the the time. He consistently had linebackers stunting toward the line of scrimmage in an attempt to “show” blitz and then would have them peel back to cover the zone. This wasted Ur’s talents as he would be 10 yards from where the cover two needed him to be at the snap and would have to scramble to get back into coverage leaving a gap in the middle of the zone. Our linebackers need to read and react, particularly Ur, so he can be the "QB’ on defense and fill the gap left by Brown who could easily read the entire field from his position. Babich tried to read the field himself and gave no ownership to the players on the field. Babich couldn’t find his ass if you packed it with uranium and handed him a geiger counter.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
by Just Dave on Jul 1, 2009 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eternal optimist
I’d like to think they’ll build on last year cause they were in almost every game until the very end. With a top-notch QB and an upgraded O-line, improved depth on the defensive line, LBs, and CB positions (and Marinelli), I see more consistent play overall. It seems like they’re much better equipped to handle injuries at every position as opposed to previous years.
Just Dave- That’s what happens to a defense when it can’t get to the QB. The D-coordinator looks like garbage. I’m not defending him in any way, cause motivating your players to do well is part of the job description.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 1, 2009 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I appreciate your optimism, but
The job of ANY coach at ANY level in ANY sport is to place every player in a position to be successful. By placing the LB’s near or at the line of scrimmage consistently in order to keep the offense guessing is really insulting the other teams O-coordinator and ruining any chance of your talented LB’s from making a difference. A true LB blitz works when the LB’s are lined up at their natural position and allowed to “read” the D and attack from there. Gimmick defenses like we consistently “showed/faked” last year are ran by the same teams that will rely on the “Wildcat” formation to get them wins on offense this year. Gimmick on O = Gimmick on D.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
by Just Dave on Jul 1, 2009 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the Mug look works in small doses… making the offensive line account for those LB’s was a good idea in theory, but once teams figured out how to attack it he should have adjusted… I would have loved to see him occasionally line up in the Mug and drop the DE’s into coverage, it would have given the QB something to think about before throwing that slant
by wiltfongjr on Jul 1, 2009 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great insight, but that would have required creativity, something that Babich lacks or has yet to develop. I know I’ll come off harsh on Babich, but check out his credentials sometime. He has none.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
by Just Dave on Jul 1, 2009 11:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
which brings me to the point i was waiting to make...
babich, and turner are gone before lovie is… unless, of course, they pull the trigger on a shanahan/cowher type move(which after the events this off-season, i could see JA doing so), then everybody is toast!
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 2, 2009 2:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Adjustments
Babich was definitely slow in making that adjustment. It seemed like he was forced to bring the LBs on blitzes much more often than he wanted, but at the same time couldn’t find creative ways to keep the offense confused or off-guard. I would have liked to seen more blitzes from the secondary like in previous years. Mixing it up a little is good, and I think Lovie will.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 2, 2009 12:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When ever the Bears blitzed it seemed we all knew where it was coming from, and if all us fans knew then so did offenses… a delay blitz, or a stunt blitz, a CB or S from time to time maybe?
by wiltfongjr on Jul 2, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Babich tried to read the field himself and gave no ownership to the players on the field”
true that…I remember a storyline involving that guy switching from field to booth to field etc. because he apparently couldn’t get a proper feel for what needed to be done. Glad to see him just coaching up LB’s where he belongs.
by reefermadness3 on Jul 1, 2009 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks, I meant to add that to my rant
The guy just couldn’t get it. I think he can coach the LB position, but not coordinate a defense.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
by Just Dave on Jul 1, 2009 10:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well last year
we were pretty much trying to hide our weaknesses of not being able to stop the run and not being able to rush the passer. if babich didnt design that “Mug-up” front we probably would have finished with the same horrible defense of 07(or worse) with defenses running all over us. the problem with trying to hide weaknesses in the NFL is that it always shows up somewhere else in this case it was our pass defense.
by Staleystan595455 on Jul 3, 2009 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't understand this...
“there are no guarantees at any other position on the roster” argument, remember we didn’t loose any key personnel from last season, unless you count Orton, on a team that went 9-7. And all we did was upgrade our coaching staff, LB core, QB, LT, and LG. So barring any serious injuries I really don’t see this team winning less than 10 games.
by chase17 on Jul 1, 2009 10:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep
Upgrades from last year:
Cutler- QB (most important position in all of sports)
Pisa- ultra-productive and perfect fit in the cover-2
Hester- 3rd year as a WR and in same system
Omiyale- influx of youth
Williams- healthy and playing in a less demanding position
Gaines- bruising blocker
Vasher, Tillman, and Jones are healthy
Depth:
DJ Moore- most ready player drafted
Gilbert- freak of nature athleticism
Freeman- shore up STS
Iglesias and Knox- develop someone at WR
Melton- project, but great physical ability
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 1, 2009 10:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
unfortunately
there has to be an accounting for losing brandon mcgowan
just kidding. please hurry up sept 13
by reefermadness3 on Jul 1, 2009 11:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huge loss
Unfortunately, it’s part of the business of football.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 2, 2009 12:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You said it yourself
Lovie smith has shown that he can make winners out of marginal talent
He has better than marginal talent currently on this year’s roster. What makes you think he won’t do the same this season?
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 1, 2009 10:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it all depends on the players
I’m not saying that he won’t duplicate or outdo ‘08, With so many new pieces and even more new questions, I wouldn’t be shocked if we struggle this season
Like you said
He has better than marginal talent currently on this year’s roster
Cutler…check Olsen…check Briggs, Urlacher, Kruetz, Forte…Check
I wouldn’t even call the rest of the team marginal.
Camp ifuwanna, we hold you in our heart...
by ifuwannacrownem on Jul 2, 2009 6:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
but there is such a thing called having a “bounceback” year, and the Bears defense has a lot of starters who underachieved last season who have had success in the past.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 2, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With Current Roster
I think Lovie’s got 2 years at least. with playoff appearances that will be extended.
by GallopingGhost on Jul 1, 2009 7:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
As long as Angelo is GM, Lovie will have a job
Angelo is really high on Lovie, going back to their days together in Tampa Bay. The Bears ownership is basically letting Angelo make most of the moves, so unless they tell Angelo to fire him, I think Lovie is safe.
Now if something happens to Angelo, then don’t count on Lovie being around much longer.
by JimmyMack on Jul 1, 2009 7:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Depending on the season!!!
If we don’t make the playoffs, I’d say he’s done. Or their will be a lot of coaching changes and he’ll have one more season to prove it. If we make a deep run in the playoffs this season, it’ll buy him 3-4 more seasons
by rdr3131 on Jul 1, 2009 7:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
At least 2 more years...
But after we win the Superbowl both this year and next, he might get a 10 year extention.
But seriously, it could be 12 yrs. ;)
If he takes the reigns at playcalling for the D and the offense does it’s job this year with no injuries, he should be fine. I don’t think Angelo is going anywhere after the Cutler deal, so I think he will be the coach unless the D suddenly gives up 30+ per game and we miss the playoffs this year and next (which shouldn’t happen).
I love Lovie, but the dude should start showing SOME emotion out there. He doesn’t need to have a Ditka-spaz by any means, just more than a half-assed smirk on his face. Otherwise I like the guy and hope he is around and gets 3 -10 SB rings.
Ya, I’m die-hard, and optimistic. So shoot me.
by Bearsguy34 on Jul 1, 2009 8:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
hopefully at least a few more years
but like others have said, a large question mark is going to be his D playcalling this year. If the D continues to be inconsistent and keep the Bears from going places then he very well could be out in 2 years.
by reefermadness3 on Jul 1, 2009 8:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's an interesting point
I guess you could say that Lovie has “upped the ante” by naming himself as defensive play caller this year. If the defense underperforms again this year he could be in real trouble. I wonder how he’d look on camera next to Howie Long or Mike Ditka…
by JimmyMack on Jul 1, 2009 11:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh please god NO
Outside of a couple locker room clips, I can’t recall Lovie even approach animated when speaking. It’d be like Nyquil administered via TV.
by reefermadness3 on Jul 1, 2009 11:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I fully expect the BEars to be in the playoffs thus giving Lovie more time… but if they end up with a losing record I can see him fired
by wiltfongjr on Jul 1, 2009 10:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you 100%
Why 2 more years? If they don’t make the playoffs for a 3rd straight season, no matter the reason, immediately following a Super Bowl appearance with one of the youngest teams in the league, at that point, there is no reason to give him more time. All the talk about Babich and Turner is irrelevant, in my opinion, because it was Lovie’s choice to stick with them. His job is to assess these situations quickly and effectively, then make the proper moves. His moves, thus far, have to be considered awful if this season is anything less than the playoffs. I really hope that we’re not subjected to another couple of seasons of “hoping” that Lovie can turn things around. I would rather bring in a coach with a new attitude, staff, and system that fits our personnel. I’ve stated several times in the past that Lovie’s ability to adjust is not a strong point, so if we’re sitting at home in January again, launch the whole crew.
by BearFan611 on Jul 2, 2009 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
adjustment, or great lack thereof, is, INHO, the only problem with our staff right now!
we saw it time and time and time and time again… how do you go from the highest scoring team in the first qtr to losing 3 games by blowing leads of 10 points or more(2 by 17pts), and 3 more games by 3 or fewer points…i’ll take 2 out of those six and that gives us an 11-5 season, tie with the vikes(both 4-2 in div. play)… which btw, with identical W/L records, and identical div. records, not to mention splitting the 2 games with minny, how would you decide the conference champs? anyone? anyone?
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 2, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's big, but I don't think it's the only problem
I also feel our staff does not hold players as accountable or are as tough minded as I would like to see. That’s just what I think, though and it’s been a long time since Angelo has asked for my opinion….actually, never!!!
by BearFan611 on Jul 2, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
from what i'm reading, hoke and marinelli are doing just that...
don’t personally understand why hoke was fired for houston if he was really that good, and the fans over at battle red were ELATED when it happened, but word is, our secondary is responding to him…
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with all the moves buying Lovie two more years
unless the defense backslides. Then I could see something drastic happening, especially with him taking more control.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 1, 2009 11:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
BRING IN SINGLETARY OR PARCELS OR SOME OTHER ASS KICKER
someone had to.
YOU HAVEN’T READ THE BOOK I’VE READ
by mike b on Jul 1, 2009 11:54 PM CDT reply actions 4 recs
LOL
I needed a laugh.
Camp ifuwanna, we hold you in our heart...
by ifuwannacrownem on Jul 2, 2009 6:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
rough night again???
you should stop messin’ with those cowboy “fans”… it’s like teaching a rock how to count!
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 2, 2009 7:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice.
Engreenination soon to follow.
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 2, 2009 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
one from me
Could’ve done with something about the rest of us being several decades too young to appreciate the game, too.
"They tried to take out the quarterback, and if they managed that, they tried to take out the backup." - Bears SB20 TE Emery Moorehead, on the mentality of *that* defense
by Spongie on Jul 2, 2009 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Done and done
Needed more “you haven’t seen as much football as I have” though to be perfect
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The History of the Super Bowl
is authored by ‘ass-kicking’ coaches. From the beginning (Vince Lombardi) to the present (Tom Coughlin – 2007; Mike Tomlin – 2008).
Almost all SB winning coaches fall into the ‘hard ass’ category, much like, of course, our own Co-HC’s (MIke Ditka & Buddy Ryan).
Of course, there are a few exceptions along the way, such as in 2006, when one ‘touchy-feely’ HC (Tony Dungy )faced off against another ‘touchy-feely’ HC (Lovie Smith). Obviously, one of those ‘easy going, nice guy’ HC’s HAD to win that game.
If anyone has trouble grasping this SIMPLE concept they might want to pick up a copy of Mike Freeman’s book ‘Bloody Sundays.’
Basically, in about ONE paragraph, Freeman explains this concept, for those that haven’t been able to figure it out themselves.
If someone CAN’T figure out this SIMPLE concept, then it might be helpful to pick up Freeman’s book.
Overall, Freeman’s book is worth reading, although he is a little too ‘East Coast’ and ‘NFC East’ biased for my taste. On a scale of 1 – 10, I’d give it a 7 (he would have scored an 8 but for his ‘man love, hero worship’ of the overrated Emmitt Smith).
Again, for those that haven’t watched every SB and for those that aren’t able to figure out this SIMPLE concept (that almost all SB winning HC’s were defined as ‘ass kicking’) then Freeman’s book just might do the trick.
You’re Welcome.
by GeoMak on Jul 3, 2009 12:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This guy heard you were talking about hard ass coaches...
and although he’s never coached in the NFL, he wanted me to tell you he’d like a word with you.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 12:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You've been on a pic frenzy, huh?
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 3, 2009 12:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah. I'm bored. My wife left on a deployment and my kids asleep.
So not much going on.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 12:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well I'll be damned.
THE man Mr. Geo. Was just wondering where you had been LATELY. This should BE INTERESTING should you stick around and meet some OF THE NEW GUYS.
How’s life treatin ’ ya Geo?
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 3, 2009 12:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You forgot to tell us to get off your lawn, gramps.
"They tried to take out the quarterback, and if they managed that, they tried to take out the backup." - Bears SB20 TE Emery Moorehead, on the mentality of *that* defense
by Spongie on Jul 3, 2009 1:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If the Bears need to Replace Lovie
I would love to see Jeff Fisher take over. That guy is solid; long-time coach, focuses on the D, gets respect from the players, smart, keeps his cool but can blow his top when necessary (for those who think Lovie is too calm).
The problem is he will not get fired from the Titans so we’d have to hope he’d be retired and then willing to come out of retirement for the Bears.
by GallopingGhost on Jul 2, 2009 10:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I like Fisher
But if we couldn’t get him I’d still like to get Jon Gruden as I’ve said to you before GG. He would be a perfect fit for us Bears fans but he may but heads with some of our players. I just think a change of pace in personality would be good for us, plus I’ve always liked Chucky.
"The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love." ~Bryant Gumbel
by gwl17 on Jul 2, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
personally, i think gruden stole his jewelry...
if you want a coach who can can “motivate”, then it’s cowher hands down… plus, to me, it makes sense. he did his thing with an AFC team, why wouldn’t he wanna’ take a shot with an NFC team???
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 2, 2009 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fisher has been a real good coach… there are a lot of former Bears players that are now coaching.
Earlier this year I did a post on Sporting News that spotlighted what a possible coaching staff made up of all former Bears would look like…
by wiltfongjr on Jul 2, 2009 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are only getting away with this because you are on our staff.
:0
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 2, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL!
it was a nice post! a lot of good names the Bears let get away!
by wiltfongjr on Jul 2, 2009 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DAMN
that Coaching Staff is STACKED.
by Staleystan595455 on Jul 4, 2009 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I gotta know
Was Mark Carrier’s position on the coaching staff, influenced by “The Office”?
by rdent4hof on Jul 6, 2009 8:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Simple equation: no playoffs, no Lovie, no matter what. That’s how I see it.
A lot of you are right—Lovie essentially raised the stakes by putting himself back in the driver’s seat on defense.
One of the other big factors is the talent level of the FA coaches out there right now: Cowher, Shanahan, Holmgren…they’re gonna look might tempting after a disappointing season.
I do like, Lovie though. And I can even tolerate the stoicism/lack of outward passion.
What I DETEST, however, is the stubborness and inflexibility, mostly when and how it translates onto the field—as a lack of neccesary adjustments, a lack of imagination in some cases, and in poor personnel moves (usually, making moves too late, or not all).
THOSE are my gripes with Lovie…otherwise, I’m a fan. His successes (most NFC wins after the Giants in his span) are undeniable.
And I love the way he set his goals, and then set about achieving them (2/3 of them, at least). He won my heart with his record against GB. And his quiet calm seems to have earned and kept the respect of the players.
I used to detest the cronyism/buddy-buddy hiring practices…but came to realize, in truth, it’s how must NFL staffs are made. Plus, I admired that instead of simply throwing Bah-bah Babich under the bus and canning him, he demoted him in a dignified way and returned him to an area of strength, while taking more of an active role himself.
The Rod addition I questioned at first, but now I believe it might possibly be the BEST offseason addition we’ve made, the one to make the most impact (along with the obvious one).
We’ll see…Bear Down.
by Amishbear on Jul 2, 2009 11:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It seems the general consensus
is if we make the playoffs this year, Lovie will be back; and, that making the playoffs will buy him two more years. After reading the comments behind this, I totally agree. That being said, when I first read this post I thought, “everything depends upon the defense improving”. I could have imagined a situation, where we didn’t make the playoffs but the defense improved and Lovie kept his job.
But, what about flipping the situation around: We make the playoffs, on an improved offense. The defense remains relatively the same (statistically speaking). We then lose in the playoffs, at home. I bet that would get Lovie fired. Any improvement on the offensive side of the ball, Angelo can almost take all the credit (the wide receivers not included).
by EvilKaramazov on Jul 2, 2009 11:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I would think that Angelo could take credit for WR production as well.
I see where you are coming from, and Cutler will undoubtedly make our WR corp better, but Angelo drafted every single WR on our roster.
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 2, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
JA will take the credit for the WR
and he should. But how long will JA be around if things don’t turn around. 2-3 years???
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 2, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure how Angelo's job becomes in jepordy.
If things don’t work out, he fires Lovie. Then he has a whole new cycle of success/failure based upon the new coach.
The only thing about the WR’s, is none of them are “blue chippers”, ie, first round draft picks or major FA pick ups—The coaches need to realize the potential of the players and utilize them—the big example for me is Bradley. I think he’s a major mark against our coaching…. Gage too, to a certain degree…
Unfortunately for the WR’s any success they have will be predicated upon the mantra " the QB makes the WR not the other way around"… If they fail though, Angelo will be blamed for not bring in a FA. This fault, will have nothing to do with the actual players on the field though…
by EvilKaramazov on Jul 2, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Angelovie basically got a pass (though not from us fans) on the Benson debacle…I mean, the Bears not fully understanding/appreciating/utilizing/developing the talent that’s on the roster is nothing new…
Benson over Jones
Chris Harris for what? a 5th rounder? (Who was it exactly, then?)
Bradly, Gage, Wade, Moose, and others going on to be productive elsewhere.
And the whole Berrian thing STILL pisses me off—we FINALLY develop some in-house talent at WR, patiently wait through all the guy’s knee bugaboo, then once he finally emerges as a legit threat, we let him walk.
Why we didn’t franchise him for at least ONE year, I’ll never understand….(money alone?)
Anyone else think that his presence alone may have made the difference in even ONE game last season, possibly meaning the difference between playoffs or not?
I know, I’m pulling scabs off old wounds here…and I digress.
My point was—Angelovie have made ENORMOUS personnel blunders before, and were essentially given passes for it.
I think the determining factor in whether or not they have (or will have) a job is about the wins/losses, period. How competitive are the Bears, year to year?
Simply put, personnel blunders and botched draft picks are forgiveable sins, as long as the Bears are competitive.
2 straight years without the playoffs…if Lovie makes it a 3rd, he won’t have the chance for a 4th.
And, then, if there IS a 4th, Angelo won’t be around for the chance at a 5th.
The demand for coaches to win is greater than it’s EVER been nowadays, the leashes are shorter and the windows are smaller (to mix a metaphor).
by Amishbear on Jul 2, 2009 12:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Our 5th round pick in 2008 (from the Harris trade) was
Zack Bowman.
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 2, 2009 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone else think that his (Berrian’s) presence alone may have made the difference in even ONE game last season, possibly meaning the difference between playoffs or not?
99 yard TD reception for the Vikings. Can’t talk. Too painful.
"They tried to take out the quarterback, and if they managed that, they tried to take out the backup." - Bears SB20 TE Emery Moorehead, on the mentality of *that* defense
by Spongie on Jul 2, 2009 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just so we don't forget....
God this is painful to keep looking at, but if we forget history we are doomed to repeat it.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 2, 2009 11:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should ban you for this.
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 3, 2009 12:40 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Aw come on... Spongie brought it up.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 12:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To hell with the both of you then.
Cause that picture…
Man, someone said a while back on the blog that Peanut was still wondering where Berrian went.
Whiskey time.
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 3, 2009 12:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seems like a sore spot for you there boss
Take it easy on that whisky don’t want to see you end up like that Sham wow guy. You don’t need a pic of him do you? :)
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 12:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wrecked!!!
almost flagged his…
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 3, 2009 1:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LMAO
Funny that I almost get banned/flagged for that! Never knew it was so easy.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i had nightmares aboaut that play...
i’m sending you my therapy bill…
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 3, 2009 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you should send the bill to Peanut.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you wouldn't happen to have his address handy, would you???
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.
by windycity72 on Jul 3, 2009 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No I used to have it but...
I lost my rolodex.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LMAO!
oh god, that was hilarious.
Camp ifuwanna, we hold you in our heart...
by ifuwannacrownem on Jul 3, 2009 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dood
low blow.
Ugh. That play really pissed me off.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 3, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just to point out
Spongie brought this up not me. I just reminded him what it looked like.
99 yard TD reception for the Vikings. Can’t talk. Too painful.
“They tried to take out the quarterback, and if they managed that, they tried to take out the backup.” – Bears SB20 TE Emery Moorehead, on the mentality of that defense
by Spongie on Jul 2, 2009 10:26 PM CDT
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know
but damn.
That picture makes all feel real again.
Also, I miss football. C’mon Sept!!
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 3, 2009 4:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know.
It’ll be the last time I post it I promise. And September can’t get here soon enough.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some help...
…get this bus offa me :-D
"They tried to take out the quarterback, and if they managed that, they tried to take out the backup." - Bears SB20 TE Emery Moorehead, on the mentality of *that* defense
by Spongie on Jul 4, 2009 7:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Watch out...it's coming around again...
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 4, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When are season went down the tubes.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 3, 2009 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Berrian should have been franchised last year, the Bears had room under the cap, and it would have given them 1 more year to see if Berrian was the real deal, and that 99 yarder never would have went down!!!!!
by wiltfongjr on Jul 3, 2009 1:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you…
So the jury’s still out…(but, like with a lot of JA’s mid-round pick projects, THIS particular fan/member of the court is getting a little impatient for the verdict…) :-)
by Amishbear on Jul 2, 2009 12:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The jury is out
But I think he stays for at least 2 more seasons..if our offense can prove it can produce this season, and we can continue rebuilding our defensive holes next draft..I think this team has promise..He hasn’t made the playoffs in 2 seasons, but he still has a winning record with the bears..which is something that a lot of other managers can’t claim to in the past few years.
by Pretender85 on Jul 2, 2009 2:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
“Lovie’s face lit up with delight, as Babich tossed him a Twinkie bar.”
“Lovie looks on in disgust as the Packers run in another soft score.”
Either could fit that photo. I’d hate to play poker against that guy.
"They tried to take out the quarterback, and if they managed that, they tried to take out the backup." - Bears SB20 TE Emery Moorehead, on the mentality of *that* defense
by Spongie on Jul 2, 2009 10:44 PM CDT reply actions 3 recs
Hey Garth, that was a haiku!!! Cool.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
by Just Dave on Jul 2, 2009 11:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice.
+1
LSU Tigers Baseball... NCAA National Champions- 2009.
by Dane Noble on Jul 3, 2009 12:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Need one more for the engreenation.
I'm teaching fools some basic rules.- MR.T
by Ditkavsworld on Jul 3, 2009 12:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's kinda funny....
But if Lovie does go anytime soon, all I will think about is how long he stuck with Grossman. All the other stuff just fades away but those press conferences will forever be lodged in my head. I haven’t thought good things about our staff since then.
by Rbmann21 on Jul 3, 2009 2:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Lovie In Chicago
2 more years tops, unless he goes to the show again. Which I seriously doubt. Lovie Smith exposed.
by Gesiakob on Jul 4, 2009 4:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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